Midway, Utah - Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Midway, the open-air ice rink stands as a testament to the enduring charm of ice skating, thanks in large part to the dedication of Shannon Wilson. As the rink manager since 2017, Wilson is not just an overseer of operations; she is a passionate advocate for the artistry of skating, a role shaped by her extensive background as a competitive skater and coach. From an early age, Wilson was immersed in the world of figure skating. Competing since she was eight, she transitioned to professional skating in her early twenties, gracing competitions like the U.S. Open Professional Figure Skating Championships in 1997. Her experiences in the sport allowed her to share the ice with luminaries such as Oksana Baiul, the 1994 Olympic champion. Reflecting on those days, Wilson describes the adrenaline rush she felt as she competed alongside elite athletes. "You want to be the fastest, you want to be the strongest, you want to be the one that’s out there, like, seizing the ice," she stated, recalling the exhilarating atmosphere of competitions. Wilson's skating journey was not just about speed and competition; it was also about artistry. Recognized for her choreography, she believed that grace and dance were integral to figure skating. "I was a highly trained dancer as well, so I skated for the artistry, the old school skating, so to speak," she explained. Her performances were distinguished by unique movements and intricate tricks, a passion ignited by her coach, Bobby Pendleton. Wilson fondly remembers a performance that challenged traditional norms and left judges astounded, reflecting her desire to push boundaries in the sport. After years of competing, Wilson transitioned to coaching, driven by the desire to inspire the next generation of skaters. She coached in various states, including Idaho, Colorado, and Utah, until she took a step back 15 years ago to focus on personal interests. However, her passion for skating never waned. When Midway sought to establish its ice rink, Wilson was drawn back into the fold, becoming a founding member of the ice rink committee. "I was on the first ice rink committee for that, and that’s where I found that I could find joy and show people the positive side of skating," she said. Midway’s ice rink, boasting 15,000 square feet, is celebrated as Utah's largest open-air rink. Its stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Back and Mt. Timpanogos enhances the skating experience, allowing skaters to enjoy the beauty of nature while gliding across the ice. However, managing an outdoor rink comes with its own set of challenges. "You’re at the mercy of Mother Nature, who has not been very kind this year," Wilson noted, referencing the unpredictable winter weather that can impact ice conditions. Under Wilson's stewardship, the rink has undergone significant improvements since its inception. The Midway Boosters, a community group formed to support the rink, have collaborated with Wilson in maintaining and enhancing the facility. In just three weeks after the committee's formation, the rink was operational once again, a feat Wilson proudly credits to the community's dedication and support. "The things that we’ve accomplished with the representation and support of the Midway Boosters have been phenomenal," she remarked. This season marks a significant milestone as the rink hosts its first three-on-three tournament for the Utah Mammoth. Wilson envisions the rink as a central hub for community engagement and a hallmark experience for locals and visitors alike. "We want it to be a Hallmark experience and have that drive to just make it better and make it so that it’s so embedded into the identity of the community that it could never reasonably go away," she expressed. Wilson’s mission transcends merely maintaining the rink; she aspires to instill a passion for skating in everyone who visits. "It’s a lifetime activity that should be enjoyed by as many people who want to enjoy it as possible," she emphasized. Her commitment to ensuring that the rink is accessible to all ages is evident as she watches families enjoy skating together, from toddlers to seniors. Despite the challenges posed by the current skiing season, Wilson remains optimistic about the ice rink's potential to attract enthusiasts. She continually seeks innovative refrigeration techniques to maintain the ice quality and has taken on various roles, including sharpening rental skates and operating the Zamboni, to ensure the rink runs smoothly. "It was a need and a necessity. Our ice has been good and consistent, so we’ve been busy and lots of people who may have been a little disappointed about how their vacation was going have been able to come and have a good time at our ice rink," she stated. In conclusion, Shannon Wilson embodies the spirit of community and passion that defines Midway's ice rink. Her journey from a competitive skater to a community advocate reflects a deep-seated love for the sport and a desire to share its joy with others. As Midway's ice rink continues to thrive, it stands as a symbol of Wilson's dedication and the vibrant community that supports it, ensuring that the artistry of ice skating will endure for generations to come.